How do you choose panel lengths for delivery and installation?

For an example family of wall PIR panels, a range of 2000 to 15,800 mm is given. In the selected family of wall panels with mineral wool, it is 2000 to 10,000 mm. The availability of a specific length may depend on thickness and colour. These figures should not be treated as a rule for the entire market.

For special roof panels with an internal laminate, a range of 2000–12,000 mm is encountered. Here too, the specific variant must be confirmed. Information about the maximum length alone does not mean that every panel from a given group can be ordered without additional conditions.

For vertical installation, the starting point is the height of the enclosure and the detail of its termination. The panel length does not always equal the distance from the floor to the top edge of the building. The plinth, support and intended gaps must be taken into account.

For a horizontal layout, the distance between supports and the method of closing vertical joints are what matter. The division of the façade should follow from the design. It is not worth determining it only on the basis of the length of an available stock batch. This may require additional structure.

If you plan to replace one panel with two shorter ones, check the new joint location. It needs support, sealing and a flashing. The sum of the lengths of the two pieces does not confirm that they fit the original solution. The change must be shown on the drawing.

One panel from eaves to ridge can reduce the number of transverse joints. However, the support layout and the permissible application conditions must still be checked. The roof pitch and edge details result from the system and the design.

Dividing into two sections requires a correct longitudinal overlap. This must be taken into account in the order, because part of the material works in the joint. It is not enough to divide the roof slope length in half. Proper cuts and preparation of the ends are also needed if the solution provides for them.

When replacing a roof, check access to the successive bays. A long panel may clash with existing equipment or the crane working area. The lifting plan should be drawn up before the lengths are approved. Later cutting of a finished component may alter the intended joint.

Check the access route, turning radii and the vehicle set-up position. A length that can be transported on the main road does not mean easy entry into a tight yard. Sufficient space for unloading the component must also be provided.

The lifting equipment must be matched to the weight and dimensions of the panel. A long panel should not be treated like a short sample. Improper support during handling can damage the facings or the bond to the core. The rules for the specific product apply.

Take the packing sequence into account. If the first components needed are at the bottom of the stack, they will have to be restacked. With long panels such a mistake is particularly troublesome. The delivery schedule should match the installation sequence of the individual bays.

Measure the finished structure and compare it with the drawings. This applies especially to old buildings and extensions. Deviations in the supports may change the required dimension. They should not be compensated for by randomly increasing the overlap or by the panel projecting beyond the support.

Check the restrictions relating to colour and temperature changes. A dark surface may heat up more. The permitted lengths and installation conditions must be read for the correct colour group. There is no single figure describing all panels and fixing arrangements.

Approve the list of lengths with quantities and identification of installation locations. Set a deadline after which a change requires a new order. Leaving an unclear dimension to be decided on site increases the risk of waste. A well-chosen length results from the whole plan, not from the production maximum alone.